Would you wear a hand-me-down wedding gown?

Jessica Padykula is a freelance writer and editor in Toronto, Canada covering a wide range of topics for several online lifestyle publications. She is a regular contributor for SheKnows, covering travel, style, relationships, health and ...

Pros and cons of a once- worn gown

With the wide array of websites available for finding gently used or worn-once wedding dresses, buying a hand-me-down gown has never been easier. But is it for you? We look at the ups and downs of making your "something borrowed" your gown.

Pro: Sentimental value

Quick tip: Find out from mom (or grandma, etc.) if you can get the garment altered. Fit is everything when it comes to looking your best on your wedding day.

So your mom wants you to wear the dress she said “I do” in. Not only can this be totally on-trend (depending on the decade mom tied the knot), it will save you a bucket of cash, not to mention make your mom beam with pride. If you and your mother are close, wearing her wedding gown can bring you even closer and provide you with that ultimate “something borrowed” for your big day.

Con: Dress pressure

Wearing a hand-me-down gown (whether from your mom, sister, aunt or cousin) can seem like a great idea, but it can also cause undue pressure. A family member who wants to pass on their dress can make you feel like you don’t have a choice – not a good feeling when it comes to your special day. Plus, the more pressure you feel, the less likely you are to make a decision that works for you, and the last thing you want is to regret your dress choice!

Pro: Saving money

Let’s face it; a used or hand-me-down gown will save you money (potentially lots of money). Something brand new can cost thousands, whereas a used dress will go for half the original cost. If it’s your mom’s or aunt’s gown, the only cost will be alterations (if needed) or accessories. If you’re on a tight budget, going already-worn is your best bet.

Con: Not getting what you want

The flipside to the used or pre-worn gown is compromising your vision and ending up with something you don’t really love. Sure, you’ll save money but is it worth it? If not, think about cutting costs elsewhere – skip the open bar, cut back on favors, print the invites yourself – and budget more towards the gown you really want.

Pro: Being eco-friendly

We love the idea of wearing a used or hand-me-down gown for the mere fact that it has an eco-conscious twist. Reusing is one of the cornerstones of being more earth-friendly, so whether you buy your dress at a vintage shop, wear your mom’s or buy from a second hand dress site, a pre-worn dress is a nod in the environment’s direction.

Con: Not being style-satisfied

While you might like or be interested in something used, it might not satisfy all of your style needs. This can be an issue when you start to pull your wedding vision together. The dress is an integral (and heavily photographed) aspect of your big day. If you aren’t completely satisfied with it, you might regret your choice.